The Ministry of Culture at the XXVI Mediterranean Exchange of Archaeological Tourism

31 from October to November 3 2024, the Ministry of Culture will participate in the XXVI Mediterranean Exchange of Archaeological Tourism (BMTA), which will be held in Capaccio Paestum at Next, New Exhibition Ex Tobacco Factory. The event, coordinated by the VI Eventi service – exhibitions and events – of the former General Secretariat of the MiC, includes a rich program of activities, including 36 workshop conducted by experts from the ministry, dedicated to research, projects and 14 interactive labs.

The meetings, which will take place in the institutional stand, represent an important opportunity for discussion and learning, touching on fundamental themes ranging from from archaeology to heritage conservation, up to technological innovation applied to culture.

Key topics will include:

1. Heritage protection: Meetings with experts to discuss best practices in the conservation and protection of archaeological sites.
2. New discoveries: Presentation of recent excavations and research, which have brought to light important finds and information on local civilization.
3. Sustainable management: Debates on integrated approaches to the management of archaeological sites, balancing conservation and tourism needs.
4. Valorization and enjoyment: Workshops and laboratories to promote innovative strategies that make heritage accessible to a wider audience, ensuring an educational and engaging experience.

A special focus will be dedicated to the underwater and archaeological cultural heritage, in line with the ministerial directives, as well as with the monitoring activities of the Riace Bronzes and Porticello. Innovative design solutions implemented in various Italian regions will be illustrated, such as Lazio, Liguria and Puglia, thanks to funding from the PNRR, with particular attention to improving the conservation and accessibility of cultural heritage.

Of particular interest will be the presentations of the activities of the recently established Museums and Archaeological Parks with special autonomy, which will offer significant cultural alternatives to mass tourism. In addition, the new “Children's Museum" of the Pompeii Archaeological Park, designed to stimulate curiosity for culture from a young age, and the digital platform SmartLand@Pompeii designed to facilitate the dissemination of tourist offers in the Vesuvian area.

Projects related to the UNESCO sites of Aquileia and Appia Antica will be exhibited, promoting culture, history and intercultural dialogue. The management of the Art Bonus collections will also be discussed, to encourage donations for the restoration and enhancement of cultural heritage.

Visitors will have the opportunity to participate in fourteen interactive educational workshops (4 replica labs), involving adults and children in practical activities, such as creating silhouettes inspired by the myth of Theseus and the Minotaur, in addition to exploring the phytoform motifs in architectural decorations. It will also be possible to admire the digital twin of the Tomb of the Diver through augmented reality.